Bureaucracy

Definition

A system of government in which most of the important decisions are made by state officials rather than by elected representatives.

Related terms

Civil Service: The group of people whose job it is to carry out the work of the government, typically non-military and non-elected roles.

Administrative Discretion: The ability of bureaucrats to make choices concerning the best way to implement congressional or executive intentions.

Red Tape: Excessive bureaucracy or adherence to rules and formalities, especially in public business.